A NEW carrier service that uses satellite tracking technology to tell customers when to expect deliveries has secured a #10m contract from one of the UK's biggest tool and machinery suppliers.

Established less than two months ago, Cwmbran-based Harley Waters Logistics already employs 50 people and has a fleet of 40 vehicles covering the British Isles.

Each van is equipped with a satellite navigation and tracking system, which not only helps the driver find the right location, but enables the customer to see delivery times via the company's website.

The technology also sends a text message to the customer's mobile phone 30 minutes before the delivery is due to arrive, so they do not have to waste hours waiting in.

Harley Waters has been set up by logistics and warehousing consultant Tim Waters.

Thanks to a #10m five-year agreement from Axminster Power Tools of Devon, Harley Waters is already making more than 700 deliveries a day.

The company's projected turnover for its first year puts it in the top 5% of the 35,000 carrier firms in the UK, and its potential has won support from the Welsh Development Agency's New Business Starts Programme, via Cardiff-based business support company Entrepreneur Action.

Mr Waters, a former logistics manager with Panasonic in Cardiff said, "I analysed what the market lacked, created Harley Waters Logistics specifically to provide a higher level of personalised service and we are delighted with the steady stream of companies wanting to talk to us."

The company operates out of two large units at Springvale and has also set up a base in Northampton. Its vehicles are branded with customers' logos.

Gareth Jones, of Entrepreneur Action, said, "We are seeking further investment to turn this into one of Wales' big success stories."